Teresa Wilson began her duties Wednesday, a day after the city council approved her contract.

She says she is a homegrown girl who is passionate about the work that needs to be done.

"I'm extremely excited about to work on the strategic plan that has been presented by this council, and that vision is for a world-class city to become one of the most entrepreneurial cities in the Southeast," she said. "I think we're well-positioned and well underway already to do that."

Wilson replaces Steve Gantt, who retired. Previously she served under Gantt as assistant city manager.